OPA Racing Celebrates Historic Success at the Lake Hopatcong Offshore Grand Prix | Announces Conclusion of 2025 season.
- Nick Smith
- Oct 1
- 3 min read
FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE
October 1, 2025
OPA Racing Celebrates Historic Success at the Lake Hopatcong Offshore Grand Prix | Announces Conclusion of 2025 Season.
Lake Hopatcong, NJ – This past weekend, the waters of Lake Hopatcong roared with history in the making as OPA Racing delivered a power-packed and unforgettable Lake Hopatcong Offshore Grand Prix.
Saturday’s action kicked off with Jersey Shore Boat Racing’s (JSBR) Summer Nationals, featuring more than 20 race teams and 15 heats of fast, intense, and edge-of-your-seat competition. OPA then closed the day with Classes 700, 600, 500, and 400 taking to the course, capping off an electrifying day of racing on the small end of the lake.
But it was Sunday that etched Lake Hopatcong into the record books. For the first time in the lake’s storied existence, a full-scale powerboat race took place on the main lake, running a 3.8-mile, 8-turn race course in front of tens of thousands of fans who turned out for the biggest community event of the year.
The weekend was filled with milestones and unforgettable stories:
Local favorite Ray Martino (#6221) podiumed in Class 600, bouncing back from a Saturday breakout to deliver his best performance to date.
Steve Lapinta's Class 600 entry of Logan's Heroes secures a second straight National Championship.
A brand-new 701 took home their first National title, Checkered flag, and the OPA High Points Championship, cementing themselves as rising stars. Team Redrum proved themselves a dominant force in Class 700, securing their position as true contenders after a season of highs and lows. Congratulations to Bob Barneschi and Anthony Cruz on an unrelenting season.
Jax Muller replaced his father and event organizer, Jay Muller. As the throttleman of #71 Twisted in Brian Klinec’s Super Vee contender.
Evil Ed Smith drove his Fountain powerboat to another victory this year. Clinching the OPA National Title over the favored Wazzup Motorsports. Setting the stage for a brewing rivalry the class needed. Accompanied by veteran throttleman from Brick, NJ Jay Wholtman. #21 Knucklehead Racing remains the baddest vee in the sea.
“There was an electricity in the air this weekend,” said Nick Smith, President of OPA Racing. “Lake Hopatcong showed the heart, passion, and community that make offshore racing so special. Along with Jay Muller, and his team in Lake Hopatcong, we made history together.”
In addition to the celebrations, an important announcement was made regarding OPA’s long-time partner in Ocean City, Phil Houck. Due to ongoing medical concerns, Mr. Houck will step back from race operations for the 2025 season. OPA Racing extends its deepest gratitude to Phil for his years of dedication and looks forward to welcoming him back when the time is right. While acknowledging the void left, the 2025 Ocean City Offshore Grand Prix is cancelled.
With a challenging season behind us, OPA Racing has decided to conclude the 2025 season on a high note in Lake Hopatcong and shift our focus toward a resurgent 2026 season. Fan-favorite locations are set to return, along with new venues and refinements that will make 2026 one of the most exciting seasons in OPA history.
“OPA has been producing offshore racing for 25 years,” Smith continued. “We couldn’t do it without our racers, fans, staff, and sponsors who make this sport possible. Here’s to 25 more years of incredible competition.”
Stay tuned in the coming weeks as OPA Racing releases its preliminary 2026 schedule, championship highlights, and exclusive behind-the-scenes content from the Lake Hopatcong Grand Prix.
Contact:
OPA Racing